Sunroof deflector - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

E150GT · #1 09-07-2007, 10:56 AM

What mechanism is responsible for popping up the deflector on the sunroof on an 86' W126? Mine does not pop up anymore. I can't really seem to figure out what pops the deflector up. Someone here mentioned springs. Where can I buy an assortment of springs if that will help? Also is it common for the sunroof to have to be popped up and then down after you close the sunroof for it to seat properly?

donbryce · #2 09-07-2007, 11:34 AM

It's been awhile since I 'fixed' mine, and it is now doing the same thing again, not popping the flap up all the way. There are 2 springs, one on each side, wound around the hinge-rod.

If you gently but firmly pull up on the flap just enough to slightly pull it past the highest position, they are visible, about an inch inside the outermost screws on the aluminum trim piece. But be careful, don't pull up too far and break the hinged pieces on the ends that the sunroof pushes down on to lower the flap when it closes.

They can be coaxed to work better by bending them to 'push' harder on the flap, as they get tired over time. The flap has to be completely removed to do this on the bench. Not a huge job, but as I said, the fix is temporary since the steel in the spring has lost its 'spring' (or maybe yours are broken).

Jim B. · #3 09-07-2007, 01:54 PM

On the W126 cars, I have been told that the "pop-up" feature of the Sunroof is the weak spot of the mechanism, which is rather complicated.

If you should make a mistake, it could be a costly trip to the dealer to fix it.
Proceed with due caution!

E150GT · #4 09-07-2007, 03:24 PM

I know it needs to be lubed, but man that lube is expensive! It is one of those things that drives me nuts, and I am gonna look at it later today. If it turns out to be super expensive, I'll just leave it be.

Jim B. · #5 09-07-2007, 05:15 PM

The sunroof lube IS expensive, it is only sold by Mercedes Benz in huge tubs for about $39-$50, or something, only useful for the shops to buy.

BUT try Rusty at www.*************** (I think that is the place) or a couple of others, I have heard that they are willing to sell you a small film cannister worth of it for $10 or less.

Enough for a complete lube of the track rails - which is a neglected but actually recommended job for these cars.

My mechanic did it this spring but broke the sunroof clips in the process.

The sunroof lube is SPECIFIC for these sunroofs - you can't use something else. I am sory about that

I hope you will let us know if you score a small bit of sunroof lube.

E150GT · #6 09-07-2007, 05:23 PM

Man, that's cheap. My dealer here told me 110 dollars. Phil was supposed to be getting those together, but they havent gotten them together.

E150GT · #7 09-10-2007, 12:00 AM

well thanks for all the help guys. I temporarily bent the springs to make them work, and I ordered two more from the dealer. I will look into the whole lube thing because I think I got a lot on me from the sunroof and I need clean the tracks and all around there because it was pretty filthy.

Jim B. · #8 09-10-2007, 12:34 AM

Try also

Jonathan at AMG East (daily contributor to www.benzworld.com W126 section)

http://www.blueridgemb.com/

He is a W126 expert and one of the best parts sources for these cars there is, and likes to help out members get difficult parts they need.

I heard he might be able to get you the small amount you need.

I also heard a rumor that George Murphy from Tennessee over at mbca might do a similar deal.

Let the forum know what, if anything you can chase down. Others would enjoy knowing.